Item Details

The Sad Story of the Banana (Dangers of Pesticide Abuse)

Beretta, Gianni; MuÌˆller, Alessandra; Peter, Giovanna; Kanopy (Firm)

Format

Video; Streaming Video; Online

Summary

"Highly Recommended. This is the real story behind the cosmetic banana; the perfect flawless fruit that appears on tables everywhere. Although the sub-title highlights dangers of pesticide abuse, the program covers broader issues regarding banana plantations in Central America. It uncovers areas such as extreme exploitation of man and earth, of trade wars and corruption, and destruction of society and the environment in poor countries by large international corporations. However, the story ends on a positive note, suggesting the possibility of a better future with global restructuring of agro-food system based on fair trade and environmentally friendly practices. The video quality is good, the narration is clear and English sub-titles are provided wherever necessary; it is highly recommended for those who are interested in world issues and environmental studies." -EMRO Review Few people realize that intensive cultivation is required to secure the world's demand for bananas or that multinational corporations are using massive amounts of pesticides to protect their valuable crops. First we see how overuse of chemicals is not only bad for the environment, but also to the welfare of the crop workers. For example, in Costa Rica we learn the water these people drink is polluted by numerous fungicides and fertilizers, causing some to become sterile, and others to suffer from skin ulcers. Then we see how cooperative plantations can provide a safer way to raise crops and a more humane way for workers to earn a living.

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"Highly Recommended. This is the real story behind the cosmetic banana; the perfect flawless fruit that appears on tables everywhere. Although the sub-title highlights dangers of pesticide abuse, the program covers broader issues regarding banana plantations in Central America. It uncovers areas such as extreme exploitation of man and earth, of trade wars and corruption, and destruction of society and the environment in poor countries by large international corporations. However, the story ends on a positive note, suggesting the possibility of a better future with global restructuring of agro-food system based on fair trade and environmentally friendly practices. The video quality is good, the narration is clear and English sub-titles are provided wherever necessary; it is highly recommended for those who are interested in world issues and environmental studies." -EMRO Review Few people realize that intensive cultivation is required to secure the world's demand for bananas or that multinational corporations are using massive amounts of pesticides to protect their valuable crops. First we see how overuse of chemicals is not only bad for the environment, but also to the welfare of the crop workers. For example, in Costa Rica we learn the water these people drink is polluted by numerous fungicides and fertilizers, causing some to become sterile, and others to suffer from skin ulcers. Then we see how cooperative plantations can provide a safer way to raise crops and a more humane way for workers to earn a living.